Narcissists tend to talk excessively for several reasons, which are closely tied to their personality traits and psychological needs:
Need for attention and validation: Narcissists crave constant attention and validation from others. Talking excessively allows them to be the center of attention and ensures that others are focused on them.
Grandiosity and self-importance: Narcissists have an inflated sense of self-importance and believe they are superior to others. By talking a lot, they seek to showcase their knowledge, achievements, and perceived brilliance, reinforcing their grandiose self-image.
Control and dominance: Narcissists often want to dominate conversations and situations. Talking excessively enables them to steer discussions in their favor, ensuring that they control the narrative and are perceived as the authority on various topics.
Lack of empathy and self-centeredness: Narcissists struggle to empathize with others and are primarily focused on their own needs and desires. Consequently, they may dominate conversations with their own interests, experiences, and concerns, disregarding or dismissing others' feelings and opinions.
Manipulation and charm: Talking excessively can be a manipulative tactic employed by narcissists to charm and manipulate others. They may use their speech to captivate and deceive people, making them more susceptible to their influence.
Avoiding self-reflection: Engaging in constant chatter allows narcissists to avoid introspection and self-reflection. By keeping the focus on external matters and maintaining a facade, they can evade facing their own flaws and insecurities.
Masking insecurity: Beneath their grandiose exterior, narcissists often harbor deep insecurities and feelings of inadequacy. Talking excessively can be a way to mask these insecurities and project an air of confidence and self-assurance.
Maintaining control in social situations: In social settings, narcissists may talk excessively to ensure they remain the dominant figure. This tactic can be used to prevent others from expressing themselves fully, thereby maintaining the spotlight on the narcissist.
It's important to note that not everyone who talks a lot is a narcissist, as talkativeness can vary greatly from person to person and may be influenced by various factors. However, excessive talking, combined with other narcissistic traits, can be a potential indicator of narcissistic behavior.